A great Idea goes sour with 200 yrs of Bethany Architectural History
I very much looked foward to this program to gain some new insights in to the town's early history especially as regards it's older buildings. Everything was first rate, the refreshments and the turn out were quite more than I expected. The Presenter ( Cynthis Houk) from the WNY Landmark Society seemed to be quite the coup for our little stashed away hamlet. She made a point of telling us that she keeps all her images on slides because they have a proven record of lasting through many, many years. She spent many hours driving our back roads hunting for treasures that she could present to us. Goodie! I know this town well, but I'm always open to someone pointing out hidden architectural gems I've overlooked.
Unfortunatly, Cynthia must have taken most of her pictures at dusk or on the most overcast day of the year. Perhaps she couldn't preview them, like most digital cameras, to see if she needed to reshoot any. She did Geoff Briggs the injustice of shooting his wonderful well preserved home from 3 different angles ( at least), none of which was recognizable. Her comment to him was that his house just wasn't photogenic and what a shame. I strained my eyes to see doorways and lintels that were in dark shadow, I could go on and on, but those of you who were there know what a truly crappy slide show this woman put on. The only time she even looked at the screen was when the Landmark Society's brochure was on display, then she scurried over to adjust the focus. I thought surely the next slide would benefit from this adjustment, but no, still dark and unseeable. Unfortunatly, she must have spent a ton on slides that will last forever and nary a one are worth it.
I feel she treated us like yokels that she could present anything to and have us be grateful. I take pictures all over the area constantly for my painting projects, so I know good, wonderful pictures can be made. I love the town in all it's seasons.
Again I truly commend the town for presenting a great program idea with a wonderful venue but you were had, and so were those GCC Students there to film the whole thing. Terry Weber.